Final answer:
Direct primaries and direct legislation voting in California and Wisconsin enhanced citizen participation but also opened the door for special interests and wealthy individuals to exert influence, leading to a mix of democratic empowerment and susceptibility to funding-driven agendas.
Step-by-step explanation:
The implementation of direct primaries and the ability for citizens to vote directly on legislation in California and Wisconsin have had several profound effects. Initiating direct democracy measures like the initiative, referendum, and recall have allowed for increased citizen participation in the electoral process. These reforms aimed to reduce the control of special interests and give more direct power to the people.
However, the influence of direct democracy also has drawbacks, including the potential for special interests and wealthy individuals to fund initiatives and push through policies that may serve particular agendas rather than the broader public interest, as exemplified by the recall of California Governor Gray Davis in 2003.
An increased ideological presence in primaries has been observed, with voters tending to be more research-oriented regarding complex measures. On the other hand, socially driven policies may find more success during general elections due to a broader voter turnout. Such strategic considerations influence how and when amendments or laws appear on ballots.
Additionally, the recall mechanism, though less commonly utilized, has had significant impacts, as seen in the recall elections of governors in California and Wisconsin, which highlighted the contentious and costly nature of direct democracy.